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Entry Level Fire Protection Designer

Looking for a company who values your skills, respects your contributions, and gives you the tools to thrive?

With more than 145 years as a family-owned business, we’ve built a reputation as one of the best mechanical and fire protection contractors in the country. We pride ourselves on delivering unmatched quality and innovation while providing you with job stability, opportunities for career progression, and support. We have an exciting opportunity for a Entry Level Fire Protection Designer located in Minneapolis, MN.

 

How you will contribute:

This is a great opportunity to showcase your design skills while playing a key role on various fire protection sprinkler system projects. As a Designer, you will exercise your attention to detail while designing automatic sprinkler systems using HydraCAD, an AutoCAD-based software product and AutoSprink. In conjunction with a Sales Project Manager, you will plan, organize and execute projects through activities such as; on-site field surveys, generating hydraulic calculations, submitting drawings to obtain the required building permits, 3D BIM coordination using NavisWorks, preparing stock lists, ensuring the projects adhere to the proposed timeline, and preparing project close-out, operation and maintenance documents.  Candidates with more experience will be given higher-level projects as well as help mentor Designers with less experience.

 

What you need to qualify:

Ahern will help make the most of your degree in a design/drafting-related program.   Candidates with related design experience are welcomed applicants who would be given higher-level projects. AutoSprink experience preferred. Being proficient in AutoCAD, mathematically and technically inclined to learn industry-specific software and codes will be essential.  You can stand out above other candidates by demonstrating the ability to thrive in a fast-paced, deadline-driven work environment.  A commitment to providing exceptional customer service, maintaining cutting-edge industry knowledge and being able to execute tasks with a great amount of detail will be crucial.  If you are ready to demonstrate this expertise, Ahern wants you!

 


What’s in it for you?
At Ahern, we understand that life is more than just work—and we’re committed to supporting our employees in every aspect of their lives. Our comprehensive benefits package is designed to give you the flexibility, security, and support you need to thrive—at work and at home.

Here’s how we stand out from the rest:

  • Top-Tier Benefits: Our 401(k) match and health benefits rank in the top 20% nationwide 
  • Incentives: A significant portion of our profits is shared with employees through bonus programs
  • Generous PTO with the opportunity to buy additional time off
  • Paid Parental Leave: Supporting you at every life stage with paid maternity and paternity leave
  • Mental Health Resources: Free, full-service mental health care for you and your family
  • Wellness Programs: Access on-site fitness centers, personal development funds, and more
  • Professional Growth: Take advantage of education assistance, training programs, and development opportunities to advance your career
  • Work-Life Balance: Enjoy hybrid and flexible schedules to fit your needs

 

By joining Ahern, you’ll gain the stability of a company that’s been a leader in the industry since 1880, the pride of doing meaningful work, and the support of a team dedicated to your success. Don’t settle for just any job—experience what it’s like to work for the best!

 

Estimated Compensation: $29 - $36 /hr plus bonus. Final offers are based on education, experience, qualifications, and internal equity.

 

Ahern is an Affirmative Action / Equal Opportunity Employer and encourages veterans, women, minorities, and disabled individuals to apply.

Average salary estimate

$67680 / YEARLY (est.)
min
max
$60480K
$74880K

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What You Should Know About Entry Level Fire Protection Designer, J. F. Ahern

Are you ready to kickstart your career as an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer with Ahern in beautiful Minneapolis, Minnesota? We're a family-owned business with over 145 years of history, renowned for our exceptional mechanical and fire protection contracting services. Here, we cultivate a positive work culture that truly values your skills and contributions. As an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer, you'll have the opportunity to flex your design muscles on various exciting projects involving automatic sprinkler systems. Utilizing industry-leading software like HydraCAD and AutoSprink, you'll collaborate closely with a Sales Project Manager to plan and execute projects efficiently. Your hands-on experience will include conducting field surveys, creating hydraulic calculations, and coordinating in 3D BIM with NavisWorks. Plus, you'll ensure timely project completion while compiling essential operation and maintenance documentation. If you thrive in fast-paced environments and are committed to excellence in customer service, this role is perfect for you! Whether you possess a degree in a design-related field or have relevant design experience, we welcome you to apply! With comprehensive benefits like student loan assistance, generous PTO, and access to cutting-edge training programs, Ahern is dedicated to supporting your professional growth and well-being. Join us, and you'll not only work for a leading company but also experience the pride of making a meaningful impact through your work. Your journey starts here—apply today!

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) for Entry Level Fire Protection Designer Role at J. F. Ahern
What are the responsibilities of an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer at Ahern?

As an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer at Ahern, you will be deeply involved in the design of automatic sprinkler systems, leveraging industry-standard software like HydraCAD and AutoSprink. Your primary responsibilities will include planning and executing projects alongside a Sales Project Manager, which involves conducting field surveys, generating hydraulic calculations, and preparing necessary documentation for regulatory compliance. You'll also engage in 3D BIM coordination with NavisWorks and be responsible for project timelines and close-out processes.

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What qualifications are needed for the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer position at Ahern?

To qualify for the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer role at Ahern, you should have a degree in a design or drafting-related program. While prior experience in design is advantageous, candidates with relevant design experience are also encouraged to apply. Proficiency in AutoCAD is essential, along with a good understanding of mathematical and technical principles. Experience with AutoSprink is preferred, and demonstrating the ability to excel in fast-paced environments will set you apart.

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What software will I be using as an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer at Ahern?

In your role as an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer at Ahern, you'll primarily use HydraCAD and AutoSprink, both of which are powerful tools in the fire protection design field. Additionally, expect to utilize NavisWorks for 3D BIM coordination, which enhances your ability to visualize project layouts and collaborate effectively with team members.

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What opportunities for career progression does Ahern offer to Entry Level Fire Protection Designers?

Ahern is committed to the professional development of its employees, especially Entry Level Fire Protection Designers. As you gain experience and demonstrate your skills, you may have the opportunity to take on more advanced projects. Those with additional experience can mentor less experienced designers, further enhancing your career trajectory within the company. Ahern also provides access to education assistance and training programs to support your career growth.

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What benefits does Ahern offer to Entry Level Fire Protection Designers?

Ahern offers an impressive benefits package for Entry Level Fire Protection Designers that emphasizes both work-life balance and professional growth. Expect top-tier health benefits, generous PTO with options to purchase additional leave, and paid parental leave. Additionally, you'll have access to mental health resources, professional development funding, and flexible work schedules to accommodate your personal needs—ensuring you can thrive both at work and beyond.

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Common Interview Questions for Entry Level Fire Protection Designer
Can you explain your experience with AutoCAD as it relates to the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer role?

When discussing your experience with AutoCAD in your interview for the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer position, be sure to mention specific projects where you utilized this software. Highlight any particular skills you've honed, such as creating detailed designs or drafting technical drawings, and how this experience will contribute to your role at Ahern.

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How do you prioritize tasks when managing multiple projects?

In your response, you could explain that effective time management and prioritization are key. Discuss strategies like breaking projects into manageable parts, setting deadlines, and using project management tools to stay organized. Emphasize how these skills will enable you to meet deadlines as an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer at Ahern.

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Describe a time when you had to solve a problem under pressure during a design project.

Think of a situation where you faced unexpected challenges, explain the problem, and detail your thought process in fixing it. Focus on your analytical skills, problem-solving abilities, and how your actions drove a successful outcome. Relate this back to how you would bring that same resoluteness in your role at Ahern.

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What interests you most about working at Ahern as an Entry Level Fire Protection Designer?

In your answer, reflect on Ahern's long-standing reputation, commitment to employee growth, and innovative approach to fire protection design. Highlight how these align with your career goals and express enthusiasm about being part of a supportive team where your contributions are valued.

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How do you ensure your designs meet regulatory requirements?

Explain your approach to staying updated on the latest codes and regulations relevant to fire protection design. Discuss specific resources or processes you use to ensure compliance with industry standards, demonstrating your commitment to quality and safety in your designs at Ahern.

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Can you give an example of how you handle feedback on your designs?

Discuss the importance of constructive feedback and how you welcome it as an opportunity for growth. Provide an example where you received feedback on your design, how you responded positively, and the changes you implemented as a result. This illustrates your adaptability and willingness to improve in the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer role.

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What is your understanding of 3D BIM coordination and its benefits?

Here, you should explain 3D BIM coordination as a method for integrating various aspects of design into a cohesive model. Discuss how it enhances collaboration and minimizes errors during the project lifecycle, showing that you comprehend its significance in the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer position at Ahern.

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How do you ensure attention to detail in your design work?

Emphasize that attention to detail is crucial in fire protection design. You might discuss methods such as double-checking calculations, reviewing designs thoroughly before submission, and utilizing checklists to prevent oversight. Your ability to maintain precision will align well with Ahern's standards for quality.

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Why do you think excellent customer service is important in the role of a Fire Protection Designer?

Customer service is essential in the Fire Protection Designer role because it involves direct interaction with clients and stakeholders. Good communication fosters trust and collaboration, which are key to project success. Relate it back to Ahern's commitment to exceptional customer service and how your approach aligns with that philosophy.

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What personal attributes make you a suitable candidate for the Entry Level Fire Protection Designer position?

Consider highlighting your strongest personal attributes, such as your creativity, analytical thinking, or effective communication skills. Provide examples of how these traits have helped you succeed in previous projects or work experiences, demonstrating that you are not just a qualified candidate but a great fit for the team at Ahern.

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